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As an artist, you will have a lot to focus on when you are creating your work. The last thing you need is distractions or disturbances of any kind. A drummer who is an important part of any band needs to focus on playing in order to maintain integrity during a performance. It requires keen attention, focus, and dedicated efforts, and hence ear monitors which cancel out any distraction are always a good idea. In-ear monitors are one of the best items you can invest in during your performance. While the crowd screams and chants, you need to maintain your focus and give it your best in performance. So what are in-ear monitors? They are basically half headphones and half earphones which have special features to support you during the performance. Their basic function is to balance the music mix on stage and yet at the same time provide protection against loud noises.

We are here to help you choose one, as we have gone through in-ear monitor reviews to curate the best ones in the market for your easy reference.

Buying Guide for in-ear monitors

You should consider several things before picking up an in-ear monitoring headphones. In-ear monitors give artists the opportunity to perform on stage or in a studio by eliminating any stage volume which makes it easier to mix music. The mechanism used by the in-ear monitors (IEMs) is that it shuts out the ambient noise but locks your ears into an acoustic bliss where you can concentrate on the instruments and the music being played. It goes directly into the ear which means that you move around freely and perform without worries. Before you buy in-ear monitors, here is a buying guide that gives you tips on what to look for: • It needs to have dependable sound isolation • Replaceable tips if possible • It must be easy to remove from the ear • It must have strong resistant cable wires of sufficient length • Good quality and durable Apart from the must-haves mentioned above, a few other essential things that one must consider before picking up an in-ear monitor are:

Over the ear monitors Vs Straight in-ear monitors

This is a completely preference driven choice. Over the ear, monitors are the ones that go over the ear and wrap themselves and stay in place during an intensive performance.

Similarly, the straight in-ear monitors also go directly into the ears and come with long durable cables. Initially, some people feel more comfortable with straight ear monitors as opposed to over-the-ear, but it depends on what you like. Both of them have good sound isolation, long wires and good microphones, so it’s a good idea to try on both before deciding.

Ear tips

Most in-ear monitors come with different types of ear-tips so that it can be customized as per preference. There is a choice of material when it comes to ear tips, and you can pick between silicone and foam. Both types of ear tips have their pros and cons, and it depends on the usage as well. While foam ear tips provide higher isolation, they are denser and cannot handle sweat well, whereas silicone ear tips do not provide as much isolation as foam ones and are lighter.

Removable Cables

At a certain price, IEMs come with removable cables. This has several advantages. If the cables go bad, you can remove them and change to new ones. You can also make the cables longer or shorter when you have removable ones. Also, you can use the IEMs with a Bluetooth transceiver or create an inline remote for an iPhone if you have IEMS with removable cables.

Drivers

Each IEM has what are called drivers that are like tiny loudspeakers in the IEM headphones, and they convert electric signals into sound. Just like regular speakers, more drivers mean better sound. This is because several drivers together can cover a broader range of frequency so that the sound is crystal clear. Three drivers are ideal on an IEM as you would then get a 3-way system with speakers for all three frequencies- high, middle, and low. This way, you get amazing clarity and deep bass.

Custom mould Vs Universal Fit

Another thing you need to look at while buying IEMs is whether you want a universal fit or a customized model that fist the shape of your ear canals exactly. Custom-molded IEMs are pricier than the global fit models. They also involve going to an audiologist to make impressions of your ear canal so that the IEMs can be custom-molded to that shape.

Go through our list of top 6 in-ear monitors before you make the decision:

If you are a passionate audiophile this LyxPro ERP-10 in-ear monitors packs in a lot of features which will ensure that your stage performances are off the charts. This in-ear monitor has a high sound quality, great bass and upgraded treble and is reliable. What is also great about this set is that you can just pop it into your hi-fi buds wherever you are and rock away. It also comes with 6 pairs of tips which means that you can easily fit one on according to your comfort and preference. It has great sound isolation which means that you can cancel out the disturbance and focus on a clearer voice reproduction at a safe listening volume. These LyxPro In-ear monitors are preferred by both musicians and those who enjoy music due to the many features the product comes with. The speaker sensitivity for the product ranges from 94+/- 3 dB and the frequency ranges between 20Hz-20kHz giving a wide spectrum for the performing artists.
This pair of in-ear monitors makes an excellent gift for a budding or a veteran musician. Keeping it in the compact little pouch, it comes with will ensure you always have it handy.
Pros
• It has complete noise cancellation
• It has convenient cables which do not snag or get tangled
• It comes with 6 pairs of replaceable tips
• It comes with a case which is nice and compact
• It comes with enhanced HD sound
• It is great for on-stage or in studio performance
Cons
• The cables are not very long

Listening to the different blend of instruments and keeping track of the time is integral to the role of a drummer. In order to deliver an energy-packed performance either on stage or in a studio, you as a musician must have access to clear, sonorous music. This KZ ZS10 comes with amazing 1 dynamic driver and 4 balanced armature hybrid driver in one side of the earphone and 4 balanced armatures rich to strengthen the bass, sense of the quality of music. This pair of in-ear monitors is designed for professionals and use a professional frequency division to realize the low, medium and high frequency reasonable. It has detachable 0.75MM 2 PIN cables which can be removed from the earphone itself. The shape of the in-ear monitors is also designed in such a way that it fits comfortably in the ear and does not fall or slide off. The IEMs also come in a bright red color. If you are recording a set in a studio where you are expected to listen to the clear voice, then this headphone provides the perfect noise cancellation without losing out the quality of the audio output. So, it is suitable for both indoor and outdoor performances. Pros • It works across many frequencies • It has braided cables which are durable. • It comes with detachable wires • It is designed for complete noise cancellation • It has an armature hybrid drive which ensures fantastic sound quality Cons • The cables are not very long • It does not come with a case

These Westone UM Pro 30 universal in-ear monitors are versatile and suitable not only for drummers but for all musicians. It has many features including complete noise cancellation and powerful sound. The audio reproduction inside the ear on this product is exceptional. It comes with rich bass and also has a better treble than many of the other products in the market. It has a compact and ergonomically designed profile which means that it can perform in any environment without loss of comfort. You can play music for hours at a stretch without feeling the slightest discomfort. The silicone comfort-foam ear-tips enhance the performance. It is light-weight and flexible and has MMCX Audio connectors and a 3.5 mm stereo plug. It is extremely durable and can be taken on tours,and it has a braided texture to help reduce friction and also cable noise.

It packs the power of triple-balanced armature drivers with a three-way crossover. It also comes with impact resistance which means that it can withstand some tension and rough usage. There is also a protective case that comes along with it which means that if you are traveling, you can safely tuck away your in-ear monitors.
Pros
• It has complete noise isolation
• It has braided cables which do not snag
• It comes with a traveling pack which is compact
• It comes with a case which is nice and compact
• It comes with enhanced HD sound
• It is great for on-stage or in studio performance
Cons
• The cables are not very long

These clear detachable cables MEE audio M6 Pro universal in-ear monitors are a favourite among many musicians due to the universal fit it provides without a lot of adjustments. It is one of the best looking in-ear monitors in the market with clear cables which are detachable from the earphones. It is the 2nd generation in-ear monitors from the company which means that it has a superiority quality output when it comes to sound. The noise cancellation feature has also received an upgrade.

The earphones are engineered to have all day comfort with an over-the-ear fit. This also means that when you are performing live on stage, the earphones do not slip off. It also has detachable and replaceable cables. It also is designed to be sweat resistant. These in-ear monitors have a memory foam which adds an extra layer for noise isolation. It has a braided pattern on the cables which means that it is more durable and can handle tension. It also comes with regular stereo cable, headset cable and a protective case which can be used during travelling.

Pros
• It has complete noise isolation
• The braided wires are detachable and replaceable
• It has a case which is nice and durable
• It comes with 6 pairs of replaceable tips
• It comes with a case which is nice and compact
• It comes with enhanced HD sound
• It is designed for power-packed performances
• It also has a regular stereo cable apart from a crystal one
Cons
• The cables are not too long

These earphones are very affordable for musicians. They can be used for in-ear monitoring for drummers or guitarists, both professionals and upcoming alike. They are designed keeping in mind the requirements of musicians and come with in-line microphones which means that you can pick up a call and use it every day, too. The ergonomically designed drummer earphones will fit over the ears snugly and stay in place even during an exciting performance. They are also hypo-allergenic which means anyone can use them and they are made with silicon rubber twisted locks for double isolation. The music that comes out of these in-ear monitors is exactly as how its produced in a studio or on stage, giving a drummer the advantage necessary during live performances. The sound reproduction inside your ears will amaze you as it comes with wide dynamic range microphone driver. It also uses a balanced armature driver for linear frequency response, so the music comes out exactly as it is! It features volume control on the cable itself. The bass on these in-ear monitors is amazing. It also comes with a pocket-sized pouch and soft silicon tips which lock into the ears and provide incredible comfort and excellent sound quality. Pros • It comes with noise cancellation • It has crystal clear sound production • It comes with braided cables which do not get tangled or snag • It is designed for high performance on or off stage • It comes with a microphone

If you have any intense performance coming up, then one of the key things for a drummer in the performance is not to have a fidgety ear monitor. These adjustable ear hook in-ear monitors are perfect for a long and exhilarating performance. For drummers, since there is a lot of physical movement involved, this needs to stay in the same place. These in-ear monitors also have been designed for long-lasting wear which means that you can comfortably wear them for hours with no issues. The BASN Bsinger headphones also come in a variety of colours. It has high definition speakers with neodymium magnets to create beautiful crisp sound. It can also be used daily when you go for a run or workout, too. It has MMCX connectors, which means you can easily replace the cables. It comes with various-sized silicone ear tips which can fit any ears snugly and create a blocked space. The noise cancellation reaches a range of 35db making it easy for you to deliver your electrifying performance. The 3.5 mm jack is standard and is compatible with most systems.

Pros • It has complete noise cancellation • It has micro speakers with neodymium magnets • It has convenient cables which do not snag or get tangled • It has an adjustable ear hook which fits securely • It has high-quality HD sound • They come in a multitude of colours Cons • It does not come with a case • It does not come with replaceable tips

Conclusion

Being a drummer, you alone can understand the importance and weight of keeping a steady beat and matching the rhythm during a performance. A drummer’s role can make or break a band during a show, and you cannot afford to be distracted by anything. One of the most critical roles of a drummer is not only to keep time but also know what’s going on with the other instruments and this high level of synchronicity can be achieved with an in-ear monitor. A hunt for the perfect in-ear monitor can be daunting and tiresome. With this well-thought-out list, we hope your research gets easy, and you are able to identify the right in-ear monitor for your needs from the ones available in the market.

Having the ability to play a musical instrument is an admirable skill. And if you are a regular player of any musical instrument, you don’t just need to own or rent your instruments, but also you need to own a few accessories to help you get the most from your instruments. In case you are a proud owner of a trumpet, you will need to have in your possession a few best trumpet cases to accord you the convenience of safely carrying your trumpet to wherever you go.

A proper case for your trumpet will not just ensure the safe protection of your musical instrument, but also it will make it easy for you to move with it from one place to another. It is also worth observing that most of the trumpet cases you will find in the market today come with quite a number of zippered pockets which makes it possible for you to carry a variety of other smaller musical accessories or simple stuff you may need for your gigs.

Product Review – Protec Trumpet Rectangular Pro Pac

The Protec trumpet rectangular pro bag is one of the best protech trumpet case you will find in the market today. The case features a lightweight and durable wood shell frame with very tough weather-resistant ballistic nylon. The frame of this trumpet gig bag is impact resistant to imply that your trumpet will be very safe should there be an impact that is large enough to cause significant damage.

It is reinforced with high-quality metallic hardware and accessorized with a removable thickly padded and adjustable shoulder straps guaranteed to give the desired comfort when carrying the bag even for a long time.

The trumpet gig bag also comes with long lasting custom zippers which are strong enough to keep their contents therein intact even when under pressure. The zippers come with a locking ring should you feel that you will have a need for an optional case lock.

If you play trumpet, or you are in the market shopping for a case, you will always appreciate if you find one that can accord you extra space where you can store other accessories you will most definitely have. Well, this Protec trumpet rectangular pro case comes with very large gusseted pockets with their zippers which you can use for the extra storage you will always need. On the outside, there are two large pocket organizers while the inside has a built-in organizer featuring two large storage pockets and three pen loops.

Pros

Lightweight

Impact resistant

Extremely durable

Weather resistant

Large storage for other accessories

Thickly padded shoulder strap for ease of carrying

Universal fit

Cons

Though lightweight compared with the rest, it is still pretty heavy

Zippers have weak points. May compromise storage

In view of the above, if you need a quality case to accord your trumpet the safety as well as the convenience of carrying it, then you have every reason to choose this case.

Gator Lightweight Molded Trumpet Case

This Gator case is the GC series of orchestral and band cases ideal for carrying your musical instrument around town or when going for local gigs. The case is designed with a deluxe ABS exterior, while the interior features a protective EPS foam and a thick plush lining. Additionally, it is reinforced using a heavy-duty aluminum valance which grants it more robust protection. The handle design features with a through-bolt for extra comfort and strength. The case will comfortably fit a standard-sized trumpet from the popular brands, and it also comes with additional space to also accommodate the necessary accessories you would like to carry along.

Pros

Lightweight in construction

Through-bolted handle for comfort and strength

Interior is foam fitted with plush lining

Ideal for standard student model trumpets

Cons

No exterior storages

Only ideal for standard models

No support at the taper

Has room for only a single trumpet

Gator Lightweight Molded Trumpet Case

Gator doesn’t need any introduction when it comes to the manufacture of gig bags, and Gator lightweight molded trumpet case is a clear indication at how innovative they are when it comes to the manufacture of trumpet cases. This gator trumpet case is designed for both comfort and protection of the instrument. The gig bag has very thick padding all around, and a reinforced bell section to make it sturdy and stronger. You will be excited to know that the padding comprises of a 25mm thick weather resistant nylon exterior.

The lining inside this gator trumpet case is made of a super soft non-abrasive velvet, featuring a padded mouthpiece pouch which comes with a hook and a loop closure. The handle design features a padded removable strap with ID tags, with an optional backpack strap. It is also important to observe that the handle have dual cords and this guarantees enough strength to withstand walking around with the instrument for long and without feeling the weight.

For the safety of the contents in this gator trumpet case, this gig bag comes with long lasting, custom molded zippers that are easy to work out when the bag is in use. There is a durable molded rubber feet to protect the bag when placed on the ground or in storage, and then there is also a large front exterior pocket that comes with a nicely designed organizer for carrying small accessories.

Pros

Protective weather resistant padding

Exterior pocket organizer for storing extra accessories

Comfortable padded handle wrap

Strong, molded zippers

Super soft interior lining

Cons

The stitching is not strongly done

Weak handles

Ideal only for standard trumpets

Protec Gold Series Trumpet Gig Bag

This gold series trumpet gig bag by Protec features a lightweight ABS construction with a through-bolted handle for extra strength and sturdiness. The handle has one locking and one non-locking chrome plated latches, and D-rings to make it easy to attach a shoulder strap. The interior features a form fitted EPS with a plush lining. The gig bag will easily fit standard student models.

Pros

Lightweight in construction

Through-bolted handle for extra strength

Plush interior lining

D-rings for shoulder straps

Cons

Ideal for standard student model

No exterior storage for accessories

Gator Cases Pro-Go Ultimate Gig Bag for Trumpets

If you are looking for an ideal bag for transporting a trumpet from one gig to another, then you have a very worthy choice with the Pro-Go Ultimate Gig Bag for trumpets. The design of this case features super-thick padded sidewalls for maximum protection against external stress. The interior lining features micro-fleece fiber, and it also comes with a protective rain cover. The back straps are adjustable and removable for extra comfort and convenience.

Pros

Thickly padded sidewalls

Soft interior

Removal and adjustable backpack straps

Cons

Ideal only for standard student models

No extra storage on the interior or exterior

Doesn’t protect sax

Pro-Tec M404 Trumpet Multiple Mute Bag

This mute trumpet bag from Protec comes with every feature a passionate horn player would desire in their gig bags. It is designed in a manner that in addition to offering you the necessary protection to your instruments and accessories, it will also allow your very fast access to the mutes.

The trumpet mute bag has modular padded walls to allow for easy storage of various kinds of configurations. The exterior of the walls is thickly padded, and it is covered with a 1680D ballistic nylon for extra protection. With that, you don’t have to worry about the contents inside getting damaged with small impacts on the exterior.

The bag has a carry handle which is secured by a hook and loop closure and is also thickly padded to allow for comfort and secure handling. Additionally, there is a padded shoulder strap for easy carrying for those who would like to move around with the bag on their shoulders.

If you go for regular gigs, then you know the importance of having a mute trumpet bag that will give you the pleasure of carrying other accessories, and this is precisely what you get with this Protec bag. It has large front side pockets for carrying your accessories, as well as a stretchy side pocket where you can carry your water bottle.

Pros

Padded bottom

Large exterior pockets

Stretchy water bottle pocket

Modular interior for different configurations

Cons

Too large for average use

WolfPak Polyfoam Trumpet Case Black

This WolfPak Polyfoam trumpet case is a lightweight protective case designed to offer adequate protection to your instrument. Its design and construction feature a durable 1200 denier external cover which not only protects but also insulates the exterior. The interior design features a plus plush, lightweight form for maximum protection in case of any external impact. The ergonomic handles are bolted and made from heavy-duty materials. Also featured in the design are luggage-grade zippers to accord the necessary protection to the instrument kept inside.

Pros

Lightweight

Ergonomic handles

Insulated exterior

External storage

Cons

Ideal only for standard equipment

Flexion Senior Trumpet Gig Bag

The Flexion Senior Trumpet Bag is designed to accord your trumpet the protection it deserves when carrying or during transportation. It has a rugged ballistic nylon exterior with additional roomy pockets for extra storage. The interior features a very soft fabric to protect the instrument from any form of scratches. The bag comes with two main storage compartments, with the main one being the zipped compartment for storing trumpet, and the other chamber for storing straps, sheet music, and other accessories.

Pros

Roomy exterior pockets

Comfortable shoulder straps

Strong exterior

Soft padded interior

Cons

Available in only one color – black

Ammoon 600D Water-resistant Trumpet Gig Bag

The Ammoon 600D Water-resistant Trumpet Gig Bag is very durable, given that it is made from Oxford cloth. Both the interior and the exterior are padded for extra protection of the instrument stored inside. It has two separate compartments – the first being the main zippered compartment for storing the trumpet, with the other one being for storing mouthpieces, sheet music, straps and any other accessory you may have. It has a grip handle as well as a single shoulder strap for convenience and comfort when carrying.

Pros

Durable

Water-resistant

Double compartment

Padded for extra security

Cons

Designed only for trumpets

Protec Trumpet Contoured PRO PAC Case

Protec is a renowned manufacturer of gig bags, and if you were in need of a reliable, versatile and comfortable bag for your trumpet, then you have every reason to consider the Protec Trumpet Contoured Pro Pac case. Its design comes with every feature you will need to protect your instrument and also accord you the comfort you need when carrying or transporting the bag from one gig to another.

To begin with, the bag is lightweight, to imply that you won’t have to worry about unnecessary extra weight. The exterior of the bag is made with an extremely durable and weather resistant ballistic nylon that will offer adequate protection against any impact directed towards the instruments. The interior lining is made from a soft velvet that has a precision fit to offer more protection to the trumpet against damages.

The shoulder straps for this bag are strong, thickly padded and strong. The straps have a grip surface, an id tag, strong metallic hardware, and they are also backpackable for users who don’t want to carry them in their hands.

If you are considering this bag, then you would also be interested in the amount of storage space it comes with, and to your delight, you will be delighted with what you will find out. It has very large gusseted pockets with two pocket organizers where you can store various accessories. And to top it all up, the gig bag is also fitted with a long-lasting zipper with a locking ring for users who would desire to have a case lock.

Pros

Lightweight

Lots of storage compartments on the interior and exterior

Padded interior and exterior

Weather resistant

Strong and comfortable straps

Extremely durable

Available in a variety of colors

Cons

The handle may block the zipper during opening or closing. A minor complaint, though.

Xlinke Trumpet Gig Bag

The Xlinke Trumpet gig bag is durable, lightweight and features a water-resistant Oxford cloth. It has a 5mm soft padding all around to protect the trumpet from impacts and scratches during carrying or transporting from one gig to another. Also featured is a side pocket for carrying valve oil, , and other accessories. An adjustable single shoulder strap is there to give comfort and convenience when carrying the bag from one place to another.

Pros

Lightweight and durable

Made from water-resistant materials

Extra storage for accessories

Adjustable single shoulder strap

Soft padding all around

Cons

No padding at the bell

Not ideal for very heavy trumpets

Buying Guide

When you are in the market shopping for a trumpet case, you should know that there are two main types of cases: hard and soft trumpet bags. You should, therefore, start by deciding whether you will go for the soft or the hard cases.

Hard cases are normally made of wood or plastic and they tend to be sturdier. Soft cares, on the other hand, feature leather or fabric construction. It is a fact that the hard cases may be preferred because they are strong and durable, and will always offer very good protection to the trumpet, it should also be remembered that they are heavy, hence, not recommended for students due to the weight.

After deciding whether to go for either a soft or a hard case, the other factors worth considering when making the purchase include.

The level of protection offered

One of the main reasons why you are looking for a trumpet case is to offer the best possible protection to your instrument and this is why you should be very concerned with the level of protection the gig bag has to offer. To do this, check on the kind of protection being offered by the case, the quality of the inside padding, the strength of the material on the outer body of the case, the materials on the walls and the quality of the straps.

The material used

Most of these gig bags tend to use nylon but for a good experience, you should check if the nylon used is water and abrasion resistant. This is because you should choose a case with a durable material that will serve you for a long time.

The capacity of the case

Whether you are looking for a case for just one trumpet or you need a double trumpet bag for more than one instrument, you will want to check that it has enough space to meet all your storage needs. It goes without saying that the size you choose should be in tandem with the size of your instrument, and in addition to this, check if it has additional space to help you carry any other accessory you would normally need during your gigs.

The weight of the case

The weight of the bag will determine how easy it will be for you to move with the bag from one place to another. Naturally, most people love lightweight cases. But just be sure that you will be comfortable with the weight of the case you choose.

The comfort of the case

An important detail of the bag is the comfort that it offers. You will not find yourself struggling to hold a trumpet case as its braces will make it easier for you. The design of this bag will not make you feel like you are holding a heavy load on you. Also, another bonus is that the case is quite fashionable so you will not find difficulty in including it on your daily outfit.

Conclusion

There is no question on whether or not you need a case for your trumpet. If you play trumpet, then you will need to carry it from time to time, and with their delicate nature, the best way to protect them while on transit is to invest in a quality trumpet bag. With so many brands available, you may be confused when it comes to choosing one. However, stick to the brief, but concise guide given above and you will be guaranteed of picking just the right case to give your trumpet case the protection it deserves.